Based on the novel by Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall, this account of the 1789 mutiny led by Fletcher Christian against Captain Bligh of the Bounty is highlighted by lavish photography and an eccentric, though interesting, portrayal of the mutiny leader by Brando. Though overshadowed by Laughton's compelling performance in the original 1935 masterpiece, Howard's Bligh is ship-shape as the cold-hearted, single-minded captain determined to reach Tahati and return with a hold full of breadfruit trees. Brando is all knickers and attitude as the peeved Mr. Christian, who finally can take no more of Bligh's social criticism. The other actors, especially Harris, join in the slightly over the top spirit of things.